Vetiver

Also known as: Vetiver is also known as Vetiveria zizanoide, and Vetivert.  Khus Khus is the name used in India, and Aroma of Tranquility is the name used for Vetiver in Sri Lanka.

Vetiver is a member of a grass family, and it is from this grass that Vetiver essential oil is extracted.  Vetiver essential oil is reddish brown in color and is thick in texture. The scent of vetiver oil gets better as it ages.

Vetiver is used to replenish soil and prevent soil from washing away and eroding.  Vetiver essential oil is similar in fragrance to Patchouli, but has a citrusy scent as well.

Home Remedies using Vetiver Essential Oil:

The roots of vetiver are used in Indian households for for weaving into sleeping mats.  Due to the insect repelling properties of vetiver, these mats are free from pests. 

Vetiver is an important base-note perfume constituent; this essential oil provides a rich fixative for oriental scents.

Benefits of Vetiver Essential Oil:

Vetiver is an ancient remedy within Ayurveda, a type of internal cleansing ritual. 

The root and its essential oil are used to quench thirst, heatstroke, fevers and headache.

Vetiver essential oil is applied as part of a liniment to relieve inflammatory disorders of the joints and skin, and may be used for rheumatoid arthritis and chronic skin disorders.

Vetiver essential oil is cool and moist. It is believed to be very nourishing, and is believed to be very calming.  The roots of the plant are very good for you.

Vetiver essential oil stimulates estrogen and progesterone production thereby alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and menopause.

It is thought that vetiver could bolster a weakened immune system. Vetiver oil lowers fast heart rate and breathing.

Vetiver oil has been shown to relieve arthritis symptoms, and has great anti-inflammatory effects.  Vetiver essential oil may also be useful in treating acne, anxiety.

• Vetiver essential oil may be used in aromatherapy. 
• Vetiver can be mixed with other oils for custom therapy or used in a simmer pot or diffuser. 
• Vetiver can be applied topically, or to be blended with other oils and/or carrier oils to be used in massage therapy. 
• It also works well when a few drops are added to warm baths and enjoyed as soothing soaks.

Side Effects of Vetiver Essential Oil:

Vetiver essential oil should be used as directed by the manufacturer, and has no known risks or side effects, but you should still conduct a skin patch test to rule out any allergies.